(persianhouse.ypguides.net) – Portland, Oregon

How I heard of this place: While on a business trip in Portland, I spent a little time sightseeing in the neighborhood and came across this establishment. After work, we returned for a glorious meal.

Type of cuisine: “A world of eclectic Mediterranean fare drawing from traditional Spanish, Italian, French, Greek, and Middle Eastern recipes.”

Ambiance: Dark, on this wet Northwest evening, the dim, red lighting of Persian House lured us in. Hardwood floors, and ambiance-laden ivy disguising white ceiling pipes give a natural, homey feel to the matching glass-topped, linen-lined tables and chairs throughout the cozy space. We admire Persian artwork adorning the walls, as we are directed to seats at the windowed restaurant-front, overlooking the rain-soaked brick sidewalk.

What I ordered: To start, doogh and a complimentary basket of warm pita,

Salad Shirazy ($3.50) for me, with fresh chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, onion, and Persian dressing (olive oil, limejuice, and black pepper).

For my husband, a Mixed Green Salad ($7.99), with chopped olives, hazelnuts, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and vinaigrette dressing.

Our main entrees included the Kabob-E Koubideh ($8.99): two skewers of juicy seasoned ground beef served with raw, sliced onion, grilled tomato and Persian white rice, and

Chicken-Soltani ($12.99): one skewer of kabob-e koubideh and one skewer of chicken kabob served with a slice of lemon, raw, sliced onion, grilled tomato and Persian white rice.

What I loved: The juicy chicken and flavorful kabob tasted fresh and delicious, the tomato grilled to perfection, smoky and soft. I especially loved the chocolate truffles, served alongside the bill.

Why I loved it: Simple setting, simple food, easier portions to swallow and friendly service.

Cost: Low ($7.99 – $12.99 per dinner entree)

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